PPE
PPE is the equipment worn by laboratory personnel to protect themselves from exposure to infectious agents or hazardous materials. The type and level of PPE required depend on the risk assessment of the laboratory activity and the biosafety level of the laboratory. PPE may include:
- Gloves
- Gowns
- Masks
- Respirators
- Goggles
- Face shields
- Boots
- Head covers
PPE should be worn correctly, changed, when necessary, removed before leaving the laboratory, and disposed of or decontaminated properly. PPE should not be reused unless it is designed to be reusable and has been decontaminated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. PPE should not be a substitute for good laboratory practices and engineering controls, but rather a complement to them